Page 7 of The Mistletoe Promise

I’m being nudged awake. “Sorry, Kitten, but we’re on the descent, we’ll be in the Maldives momentarily.”

I blink at his words. “Kitten?” I ask as I sit up, noting that his hand is still on my thigh.

“You snuggled up to me like a kitten, but you have claws,” he says with a wink. “Are you ready for some sun and sand?"

I nod, feeling nervous but excited. I have no idea what to expect from this vacation, but I have a feeling that it’ll be fun. "Yeah, I think I am."

FOUR

FRANKIE

Watching her walk around in a tiny fucking bikini has been driving me insane. I was surprised to see her as we were boarding the flight. Amanda’s always been gorgeous. I may have been married, but it didn’t make me blind. Amanda has heavy breasts, long legs that go on for miles. She’s drop dead gorgeous and captivating.

I can't help but watch her as she emerges from the crystal-clear water, droplets cascading down her body. The sun glints off her wet skin. I try not to stare, but it's a losing battle.

"See something you like?" she asks with a smirk as she plops down onto the sun lounger beside me.

She has no idea the game that she’s playing. I let my eyes roam deliberately over her curves, taking in every glistening inch before meeting her gaze.

"As a matter of fact, I do," I reply, my voice low and husky.

Amanda's cheeks flush pink, but she holds my stare. "Oh really? And what might that be?"

I lean in closer, close enough to catch the scent of salt and coconut sunscreen on her skin. "You know exactly what, Kitten."

She shivers slightly at the pet name, her eyes darkening. "Frankie..." she starts, but trails off as I reach out to brush a damp strand of hair from her face.

"You're playing a dangerous game, Amanda," I murmur, letting my fingers trail down her cheek.

She leans into my touch, her breath catching. "Maybe I like danger," she whispers.

The tension between us is electric. I want nothing more than to pull her into my arms and kiss her senseless. But I hold back, knowing we're in full view of the other beachgoers.

"Careful what you wish for," I warn, my voice rough with desire. "You might just get it."

Amanda's tongue darts out to wet her lips, drawing my gaze. "Promise?" she asks, a challenge in her eyes.

Before I can respond, we're interrupted by a cheerful voice calling out, "There you are!"

We both jump slightly, turning to see Amanda’s brothers approaching. Both of them watching us with assessing gazes. Jaxon works for me, and has done for the past two months, he’s great at his job, and since taking him on, I’ve been able to take on more clients.

"I've been looking all over for you," Kieran tells us. "Dad's organizing a sunset cruise for tonight. You're both coming, right?"

I clear my throat, trying to regain my composure. "Sorry, sounds good, but I’ve already got plans," I manage to say, shooting a quick glance at Amanda.

She's sitting up straighter now, her cheeks still flushed. "Aww damn. Maybe another time? I’ve got a massage booked for this evening at the spa," she says, her voice a little higher than usual. "I did tell Dad this morning."

Jaxon looks between us, a slight frown creasing his brow. "Is everything okay? You look flustered."

Amanda laughs, a touch too brightly. "Oh, you know, just too much sun probably. Maybe I should go cool off in the water again."

She stands up abruptly, avoiding my gaze. "I'll see you both later," she says, before hurrying back towards the ocean.

Jaxon watches her go, then turns to me with a raised eyebrow. "Okay, what the hell is going on with you two?"

I sigh, running a hand through my hair. "Nothing,” I tell him. Nothing yet. “She’s been through a lot.”

I watch Amanda's retreating form, admiring the sway of her hips as she walks back toward the water. Jaxon clears his throat, pulling my attention back to him.

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